The weather did it’s upmost to dampen and detract from this Remembrance weekend, but had those being remembered decided the weather was too bad to defend us where would we be now.

So it was that the Old Boys (and girls) from the Duke of Yorks gathered to remember, with the first stop for many being Dover Rugby Club. For some this included pulling on the Duke of Yorks Rugby shirt for the first time in many years, unearthing the house socks, borrowing some boots and playing alongside old school mates and school legends.

Dover put out two sides an under 30’s and an Over 30’s to ensure their guests from the OBA had good opposition. Len Wilby MD of company “Lawmed Ltd” unveiled the new OBA over 30’s shirts, and although not playing himself supported from the touchline with many others. Dover RFC laid on a various curries with all the trimmings for players and supporters alike thanks to John and Carol Mercer, while Howard kept the lubricant at the bar moving.

There was a minutes silence observed between games, followed by some further tinkering with playing positions and personnel, and thanks to the latest kit sponsor.

The OBA side captained again this year by Andy Black ran out winners in a good strong contest with rolling subs ensuring all wishing to play were able to take part. This game ebbed and flowed, with some committed drives and some noticeable out of hand kicking, affording several the time to draw breath.

The OBA captained by Ian Kennet, in the absence of Dave Shott (who was called to duty and missed his first game in 10 years), were unable to overcome the Dover aged. This was a strongly contested game with some fine performances, but the OBA numbers were not as prolific and the odd spot of rust showed while their heart was without question.

Presentations were made by the OBA Committee member Andy Barlow, with the OBA U30’s regaining the “Remembrance Shield” and the Dover over 30’s laying claim to the “Armistice Shield” for the first time. John Redman was on hand to present the OBA over 30’s man of the match salver, presented in memory of Christian Redman (Dukie and Dover RFC player) who died in the Bali Bombing.

The celebrating went on well into the night and for many well into the morning. But as always I am proud to say when 10:15 chimed on Sunday morning, all were well turned out with only the faintest hint of fatigue being shown and fell in for parade. Respects having been paid at the war memorial the day concluded with another memorable service of Remembrance. The school chapel was full to overflowing and the cacophony of several hundred voices patriotically and movingly celebrated the memories of those who sacrificed so much for us.